Enjoy the moment
Our DS's school had an awards night last year, and I it was like thousands of other senior awards nights held across the country. Several dozen students were acknowledged for their academic achievements and then several dozen were brought up and recognized for the scholarships they've earned for their freshman year in college. Everyone politely applauded as awards of $500 and $2,000 were announced. There were a handful of more substantial scholarships for several thousand dollars which got peoples attention. Then our son's ALO walked to the podium in his dress military uniform and began quietly talking about the Academy and described the rigorous admission standards. He then got to the part that ALO's must love to say. After hearing scholarships of $500 to $20,000, no one is prepared to hear the ALO announce the dollar value of an academy appointment, which is $415,000.00. The number caused an audible gasp and a few "holy moly's" from the audience.
So, as stated above, stand up straight, shake hands like you mean it, look people in the eye, make sure your pants are pulled up, and enjoy the moment.